Buttercup Cheese Straws
Crispy, cheesy cheese straws with a hint of cayenne pepper, perfect as a savory snack or party appetizer for cheese lovers and snack enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Have the cheese and margarine warm to room temperature.
- Mix the cheese and margarine well together until smooth.
- Gradually add the flour, a small amount at a time, mixing thoroughly.
- Add the cayenne pepper and mix well.
- Using a cookie shooter, pipe the dough onto a baking sheet.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 to 12 minutes until golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a combination of sharp and medium Cheddar cheese. If you don't have margarine, unsalted butter can be used as a substitute. Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for easier mixing. If you want a milder flavor, reduce the cayenne pepper to 1/2 teaspoon. For a twist, try adding herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cheese straws warm as an appetizer or snack, perfect for parties or gatherings. They pair beautifully with a variety of dips like a spicy ranch or a classic marinara sauce. For a complete spread, consider serving alongside a refreshing Mango Lime Mousse Tart for dessert or some No Fail Hot Rolls to balance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese straws in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Buttercup Cheese Straws contains roughly 1827 calories, with 45g protein, 123g carbohydrates, and 156g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (204% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (178% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1360mg per serving (59% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Just let it soften slightly at room temperature before piping it onto the baking sheet. This can save you time on the day you plan to serve them.
What if I don't have a cookie shooter?
If you don't have a cookie shooter, you can use a piping bag fitted with a large star tip or even a zip-top bag with a corner snipped off. Alternatively, you can shape the dough into logs, cut them into strips, and place them directly on the baking sheet.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While medium Cheddar provides a great flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, pepper jack, or even a blend for a unique taste. Just be mindful of the moisture content, as it may affect the texture of the cheese straws.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).